Best Quick Dry Towels for Triathlons: Top Picks for 2023

Triathlons are one of the most grueling endurance sports, requiring athletes to swim, bike, and run for hours on end. And while the focus is often on the gear needed for the swim and bike portions, having the right accessories for the transition and run can make a big difference. One often overlooked item is a quick dry towel.

A quick dry towel is a must-have for triathletes, as it can help you dry off quickly after the swim and transition smoothly to the bike portion. But not all towels are created equal. When choosing a quick dry towel for triathlons, there are a few critical things to consider.

First and foremost, the towel should be lightweight and compact, so it won’t take up too much space in your transition bag. It should also be highly absorbent, so you can dry off quickly and efficiently. And of course, it should dry quickly, so you don’t have to carry around a wet, heavy towel for the rest of the race.

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which quick dry towel is right for you. That’s why we spent hours researching and testing the top towels on the market to identify the best ones for triathletes. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and break down what makes each towel stand out.

Best Quick Dry Towels for Triathlons

If you’re a triathlete, you know that having the right gear can make all the difference. One essential item you don’t want to overlook is a quick dry towel. Whether you’re at the pool, the beach, or just finishing up a race, a good quick dry towel can help you dry off quickly and get on with your day. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best quick dry towels for triathlons, so you can stay comfortable and dry no matter where your training takes you.

Flow Swim Chamois – Quick Dry Towel for Swimming, Diving, Triathlons, and Other Water Sports (Blue)

If you’re looking for a quick-drying towel for your triathlons, the Flow Swim Chamois is a great choice.

Pros

• Super absorbent and quick-drying, perfect for triathlons and other water sports
• Comes in vibrant colors to choose from
• Lightweight and reusable, making it a great travel companion

Cons

• The color may fade after a few weeks of use
• May not be as soft as traditional towels
• The small size may not be enough for some users

The Flow Swim Chamois is a must-have for triathletes who need a quick-drying towel after their swim. Its super absorbent material makes it easy to wring out and dry you off again. Plus, it comes in vibrant colors to choose from, so you can find one that matches your gear.

The towel is lightweight and reusable, which makes it a great travel companion. It comes with a convenient storage tube to prevent it from drying out too much.

However, the color may fade after a few weeks of use, and the small size may not be enough for some users. Also, it may not be as soft as traditional towels, but it gets the job done.

Overall, the Flow Swim Chamois is a great choice for triathletes who need a quick-drying towel that is lightweight and easy to use. Get yours today and be ready for your next triathlon!

Flow Hydro Sport Towel

If you’re looking for a towel that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Flow Hydro Sport Towel might just be what you need.

Pros

• The suede-like feel of the towel is gentle on your skin.
• The towel is lightweight and easy to pack, making it perfect for travel and yoga.
• The quick-drying feature of the towel is ideal for triathlons and other aquatic sports.

Cons

• The towel may not be as absorbent as other towels on the market.
• Some users may find the towel too thin for their liking.
• The color may fade after multiple washes.

The Flow Hydro Sport Towel is made of 80% polyester and 20% nylon, making it machine washable and easy to care for. The microfiber material gives it a soft, suede-like feel that swimmers love. It’s available in three sizes – x-large, large, and medium – so you can choose the one that suits your needs.

The towel is designed for competitive swimmers, with its lightweight, quick-drying, and extra absorbent features. It’s also great for triathlons and any other aquatic sport. The towel is easy to pack, making it a great option for travel and yoga.

While the towel is quick-drying, it may not be as absorbent as other towels on the market. Some users may find the towel too thin for their liking, but others appreciate its compact size. The color may also fade after multiple washes, but this is a minor issue.

Overall, the Flow Hydro Sport Towel is a great option for swimmers, triathletes, and anyone who needs a quick-drying towel for their active lifestyle.

Flow Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel

If you’re looking for a reliable and quick-drying towel for your triathlons, the Flow Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel is a great option.

Pros

• The interwoven channels in the soft microfiber fabric make it extra absorbent.
• The towel is lightweight, making it easy to carry around with you.
• The towel comes in a variety of vivid colors to choose from.

Cons

• Some users may not like the texture of the towel.
• The towel may not be as large as some users would prefer.
• The towel may not be as durable as some other options on the market.

This towel is perfect for swimmers, triathletes, and any other aquatic sport. The interwoven channels in the soft microfiber fabric make it extra absorbent, allowing you to dry off quickly and easily. Additionally, the towel is lightweight, making it easy to carry around with you wherever you go.

While some users may not like the texture of the towel, it is still a great option for those who want a quick-drying towel that is easy to use. The towel comes in a variety of vivid colors to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect one for your needs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and quick-drying towel for your triathlons, the Flow Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel is definitely worth considering.

VENTURE 4TH Quick Dry Travel Towel

If you’re looking for a quick-drying towel that’s perfect for all your triathlon needs, then the VENTURE 4TH Quick Dry Travel Towel is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your gym bag, backpack, or suitcase.
• Super absorbent microfiber material dries up to 10 times faster than regular cotton towels, making it perfect for use after a swim or shower.
• Hygienic and odorless, making it ideal for multiple uses between washes.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the towel is not as soft as they would like.
• The towel may feel thin and flimsy to some users.
• The included mesh bag may not be as durable as other bags on the market.

This towel is designed to be skin-friendly, ultra-light, and significantly softer than other towels on the market. It’s made from the highest quality microfibers, and the high thread count ensures that it’s soft against your skin, making it a pleasure to use. The towel is also designed to be odorless, so it won’t stink up your bag even when packed wet.

The VENTURE 4TH Quick Dry Travel Towel is perfect for triathletes, as it dries your hair and body fast, wicks water while keeping dirt and sand off, and comes in three sizes, making it ideal for the beach, camping, hiking, backpacking, sports, gym, yoga, and more. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that it’s designed to last.

In summary, if you’re looking for a quick-drying, ultra-compact, and lightweight towel that’s perfect for all your triathlon needs, then the VENTURE 4TH Quick Dry Travel Towel is definitely worth considering.

KitBrix Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel

If you’re looking for a quick-drying towel that’s perfect for triathlons and other outdoor activities, the KitBrix Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The microfiber material is super soft and comfortable on both wet and dry skin.
• The towel is incredibly lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
• It dries 4x faster than a regular towel, so you don’t have to worry about it getting your other kit wet.

Cons

• The towel is quite large, which may not be ideal for those who prefer smaller towels.
• Some users have reported that the towel doesn’t absorb as much water as they would like.
• The price point may be a bit high for some buyers.

This towel is perfect for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who need a quick-drying towel that’s lightweight and easy to take with them on the go. The microfiber material is super soft and comfortable, and the towel dries incredibly quickly, making it perfect for use after a swim or workout.

The KitBrix Microfiber Quick Dry Swim Towel is also incredibly lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. And because it dries so quickly, you don’t have to worry about it getting your other kit wet.

While the towel is quite large, some users may prefer a smaller towel for convenience. Additionally, some users have reported that the towel doesn’t absorb as much water as they would like. However, these minor issues are outweighed by the towel’s many benefits, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality quick-drying towel.

South Sport Swim Shammy

If you’re looking for a quick-dry towel for your triathlon, the South Sport Swim Shammy is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The ultra-absorbent microfiber material quickly absorbs water and dries fast, making it perfect for travel and everyday use.
• The lightweight and compact design makes it highly portable, taking up minimal space in your bag.
• The soft and plush fabric is durable enough to withstand years of use and repeated washings.

Cons

• The towel may lose color in the wash, so be sure to wash it separately from other items.
• The size may be a bit small for some users.
• The towel may not be as scratch-free as advertised.

This quick-dry towel is perfect for triathletes who need a towel that can quickly absorb water and dry fast. It’s also great for travel and everyday use, thanks to its lightweight and compact design. The soft and plush fabric is comfortable to use, even after extended use, and is durable enough to withstand years of use and washings.

The South Sport Swim Shammy is highly absorbent and quick-drying, making it perfect for any activity, from swimming to yoga. Its versatile design makes it an ideal choice for travel, camping, and beach trips. Plus, it’s machine-washable and dryer-safe, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Overall, the South Sport Swim Shammy is a great option for anyone looking for a quick-dry towel for their triathlon. With its highly absorbent material, lightweight design, and quick-drying capabilities, it’s an essential item that everyone should have.

OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel

If you’re looking for a packable beach towel or swim towel, the OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel is a great option!

Pros

• The microfiber material is super absorbent and odor-resistant, preventing any unwanted smells after drying.
• The slip-resistant surface and extra plush microfiber are gentle on your face, body, and skin.
• The compact design allows you to easily pack them for the gym, beach, or anywhere else you need them.

Cons

• The towels may not be as durable as other options on the market.
• The sizes may not be suitable for all users.
• The towels may not dry as quickly as advertised in certain conditions.

These quick dry towels are made with fibers that are much thinner than a standard microfiber towel, allowing them to absorb more water and dry up to 3x as fast. Each set includes three lightweight travel towels in the sizes 50″x30″, 30″x15″, and 15″x15″. Use them as swim towels to dry off, gym towels during a workout, or small beach towels on vacation.

The OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel is perfect for triathletes who are always on the go and need a reliable towel that dries quickly. Purchase this towel set if you want a packable and lightweight option for your triathlon races.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

If you’re looking for a quick-drying and super absorbent towel for your triathlon training, Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The microfiber material is skin-friendly, and it feels soft and suede-like on your skin and face.
• It is ultra-compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and space-saving.
• With a hang snap loop and a carry bag, it is practical and easy to hang anywhere and dry.

Cons

• It may not be as absorbent as some other towels on the market.
• The pocket is only available on the XXL larger towel.
• The brick red color may not be suitable for everyone’s taste.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a versatile towel suitable for travel, camping, swimming, backpacking, gym, and beach. Its fast-drying feature makes it much comfortable for next use and convenient to pack. The beautiful color is much suitable for multi-use daily.

The towel is super absorbent and will absorb water five times more than its weight but dries fast. The ultra-compact and lightweight feature makes it ideal for backpacking and gym. The hang snap loop and carry bag make it practical and easy to hang anywhere and dry.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a lightweight, compact, and quick-drying towel for your triathlon training, Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is an excellent choice. It is practical, easy to carry, and space-saving, making it perfect for travel and outdoor activities.

Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set

If you’re looking for a quick dry towel for triathlons, the Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set is worth considering.

Pros

• The Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set is incredibly soft and super absorbent, soaking up water quickly. It dries 3 to 6 times faster than a traditional towel and keeps several times its weight after absorbing water.
• The towel is easy to carry and lightweight, making it perfect for traveling, outdoor activities, and beach use. It comes with a hanging loop for quick drying anywhere without blowing away.
• The Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set is made of high-quality microfiber material that is healthy and environmentally friendly. It can be used as a beach towel, sports towel, yoga towel, swim towel, and travel towel.

Cons

• The Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set may not be as thick as traditional towels, which may take some getting used to.
• Some users have reported that the towels have a chemical smell when first taken out of the packaging.
• The Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set may not be as durable as some other quick dry towels on the market.

The Sfee Microfiber Beach Towel Set is a great option for those looking for a quick dry towel for triathlons. Its softness, absorbency, and quick drying properties make it a great addition to any triathlete’s gear. While it may not be as thick as traditional towels, its lightweight and compact design make it perfect for travel and outdoor activities.

Iceland Outdoors Quick Dry Towel Set

If you’re looking for a quick-drying towel set that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Iceland Outdoors Quick Dry Towel Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Absorbs water and sweat quickly and efficiently
• Dries fast, making it perfect for outdoor activities
• Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around

Cons

• Some users may find the towels too thin or small
• The elastic strap may not be very durable
• The towels may not be as soft as traditional towels

Whether you’re going on a camping trip, hitting the gym, or simply need a quick-drying towel for your daily routine, the Iceland Outdoors Quick Dry Towel Set has got you covered. With its microfiber material, this towel set can absorb water and sweat up to 5 times its weight, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable no matter how wet you get.

One of the best things about this towel set is how fast it dries. You can lay it out in the sun or use the Hang Dry Strap sewn into each towel to make drying even easier. In just a few minutes, both towels will be dry and ready to use again.

Another great feature of this towel set is its portability. It comes with a Draw String Carrying Bag with mesh ventilation, making it easy to store, carry, and transport the towels wherever you go. Plus, the towels are lightweight and compact, so they won’t take up too much space in your bag.

While some users may find the towels too thin or small, others appreciate their lightweight and compact design. Additionally, the elastic strap may not be very durable, but it’s a convenient feature for those who want to hang their towels to dry. Lastly, the towels may not be as soft as traditional towels, but they make up for it with their quick-drying and absorbent properties.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient quick-drying towel set for your outdoor adventures, the Iceland Outdoors Quick Dry Towel Set is definitely worth considering.

Flow Swim Gear Premium Swim Chamois – 2-Pack

If you’re looking for a quick-drying towel for your triathlon, the Flow Swim Gear Premium Swim Chamois is a great option.

Pros

• Super absorbent, quick-drying, and lightweight
• Comes in vibrant colors
• Reusable and comes in a pack of two

Cons

• May develop mold if not wrung out and air-dried properly
• No storage tubes included
• Some users have reported holes developing after a few weeks of use

This swim chamois is perfect for swimming, diving, triathlons, and travel. It measures 13″ x 17″ when wet and is made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The Flow Swim Gear Premium Swim Chamois comes in four vibrant colors: Aqua, Blue, Gray, and Purple.

The super absorbent material quickly dries you off, making it perfect for use during a triathlon. The towel is also lightweight and reusable, making it a great option for travel. However, it is important to note that the towel may develop mold if not wrung out and air-dried properly.

The Flow Swim Gear Premium Swim Chamois comes in a pack of two, making it a great value for your money. However, storage tubes are not included. Some users have also reported holes developing after a few weeks of use.

Overall, if you’re looking for a quick-drying towel for your triathlon, the Flow Swim Gear Premium Swim Chamois is a great option. Its super absorbent material, vibrant colors, and reusable design make it a great value for your money.

BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel-Quick Dry, Soft Lightweight, Absorbent, Compact Towel for Camping Gym Beach Bath Yoga Swimming Backpacking (M:40”x20”-Purple)

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable towel that can keep up with your active lifestyle, then the BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel is worth considering.

Pros

• Made of high-quality microfiber that’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t fade
• Comes in four different sizes and six colors to suit your needs and preferences
• Lightweight, compact, and portable, making it easy to carry around wherever you go

Cons

• May not be as absorbent as some other towels on the market
• Some users have reported issues with the included carrying case
• May not be suitable for those who prefer larger towels

This microfiber towel is perfect for a wide range of activities, from camping and hiking to swimming and yoga. It’s made of high-quality microfiber that’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t fade, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, the towel comes in four different sizes and six colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

One of the best things about this towel is how lightweight, compact, and portable it is. It comes with a carabiner for easy carrying, and the gift pouch can also be used to store your phone, sunglasses, or swimming cap. The fast-drying fabric is perfect for use while exercising or simply drying off your face, neck, or hands.

While this microfiber towel is highly absorbent, it may not be as absorbent as some other towels on the market. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the included carrying case, which may not be as durable as they would like. Finally, if you prefer larger towels, this may not be the best option for you.

Overall, the BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable towel that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Whether you’re heading to the gym, the beach, or the great outdoors, this towel is sure to come in handy.

Tough Outdoors Swim Chamois Towel

If you’re looking for a quick dry towel for your triathlon training, then the Tough Outdoors Swim Chamois Towel is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The high-performance DryLite PVA fabric dries super fast, making it perfect for use during triathlons and other outdoor sports.
• This towel is ultra-absorbent and can absorb 2x as fast as ordinary towels, so you can pat down and take off with ease.
• The towel comes in two convenient sizes, large and medium, making it easy to choose the perfect size for your needs.

Cons

• The towel may feel a bit strange on your skin, similar to a stingray or shark, due to its chamois-like texture.
• The towel needs occasional washing to maintain its softness and absorbency.
• It may take some time to get used to wringing out the towel properly to get the best results.

This towel is perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts who need a quick-drying and ultra-absorbent towel. It comes in two convenient sizes and is made from high-performance DryLite PVA fabric that dries super fast. If you don’t mind the chamois-like texture, this towel is definitely worth considering.

The Tough Outdoors Swim Chamois Towel is designed with outdoor sports in mind, making it a must-have item in your swim accessories collection and camping supplies. It comes with a convenient storage tube, making it easy to store and transport. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to pack, making it perfect for travel.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a quick-drying and ultra-absorbent towel for your triathlon training, then the Tough Outdoors Swim Chamois Towel is definitely worth considering. Its high-performance DryLite PVA fabric, two convenient sizes, and lightweight design make it a great choice for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Winthome Beach Towel Thin Quick Fast Dry 35.4″ x 70.8” Oversized Extra Large Lightweight Towels Microfiber Sand Free for Travel Pool Camping Women Adults Colorful Flower 1 Pack – 35.4” x 70.8”

If you’re looking for an affordable and lightweight beach towel, the Winthome Beach Towel is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Dries quickly: Made with microfiber material, this towel dries at least three times faster than traditional cotton towels.
• Portable: With a compact fold size of 10″ x 7″ and a mesh tote, this towel is easy to carry anywhere you go.
• Sand-free: The high-quality microfiber material allows you to quickly shake off sand and grass, making it perfect for beach trips.

Cons

• Thin: Although the towel is durable, it is quite thin and may not be as comfortable as thicker towels.
• One-sided printing: The colorful floral design is only printed on one side of the towel.
• Not very absorbent: While the towel is quick to dry, it may not absorb as much water as other towels.

The Winthome Beach Towel is perfect for those who want a lightweight and portable option for their beach trips. The microfiber material dries quickly and the sand-free feature is a definite plus. However, the towel is quite thin and may not be as comfortable as thicker towels. Additionally, the one-sided printing and lack of absorbency may be a downside for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and convenient beach towel, the Winthome Beach Towel is definitely worth considering.

Micro Miracle XL Quick Dry Towel

If you’re looking for a versatile and quick-drying towel for your triathlons, the Micro Miracle XL Quick Dry Towel is worth considering.

Pros

• The microfiber material is soft and gentle on sensitive skin.
• The towel dries quickly, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
• It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your gym bag or backpack.

Cons

• The towel may not absorb as much water as a regular bath towel.
• Some users reported that the towel started to fray after a few washes.
• The towel may not be as large as expected.

This towel is perfect for triathletes who need a quick-drying and lightweight towel for their outdoor activities. The microfiber material is soft and gentle on sensitive skin, and the towel dries quickly, making it perfect for swim practice or any other activity that involves showering outside of your home. It’s also great for travel, camping, and backpacking, as it takes up minimal space and dries quickly.

One of the best features of this towel is its size. It’s available in an extra-large size, which is perfect for wrapping around your body after a swim or shower. The towel also comes with a smaller hand towel, which is great for drying your hands or face.

However, some users reported that the towel may not absorb as much water as a regular bath towel, and it may not be as large as expected. Additionally, some users reported that the towel started to fray after a few washes.

Overall, the Micro Miracle XL Quick Dry Towel is a great option for triathletes who need a lightweight and quick-drying towel for their outdoor activities.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best quick dry towel for triathlons, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for your next towel:

Material

The material of the towel is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for towels made of lightweight, absorbent materials such as microfiber or bamboo. These materials will help to quickly wick away moisture from your skin, leaving you feeling dry and comfortable.

Size

The size of the towel is another important consideration. Look for a towel that is large enough to cover your entire body, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry. A good rule of thumb is to choose a towel that is at least 30 inches by 60 inches in size.

Thickness

The thickness of the towel can also impact its drying ability. Thicker towels may be more absorbent, but they can also take longer to dry. Look for towels that strike a balance between thickness and quick drying ability.

Features

Some towels come with additional features that can enhance their performance. Look for towels with features such as antimicrobial properties to prevent odors and bacteria growth, or reflective strips for increased visibility during early morning or evening workouts.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the towel. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t need to break the bank to get a good towel. Look for towels that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a quick dry towel that will help you stay comfortable and dry during your next triathlon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What characteristics define the most efficient quick-dry towels for competitive swimmers?

The most efficient quick-dry towels for competitive swimmers are those that are made of lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying materials. These towels should be able to absorb a lot of moisture quickly and dry fast so that they are ready to use again as soon as possible. Additionally, they should be durable and able to withstand frequent use.

How do microfiber towels perform compared to other materials for quick drying after triathlons?

Microfiber towels are known for their excellent absorbency and quick-drying capabilities, making them a popular choice among triathletes. Compared to other materials, such as cotton or linen, microfiber towels are more efficient at absorbing moisture and drying quickly. They are also lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great option for triathlon events.

What are the recommended dimensions for a towel used in triathlon transitions?

The recommended dimensions for a towel used in triathlon transitions are around 20 inches by 40 inches. This size is large enough to dry off quickly and wrap around your body, but small enough to pack easily in your triathlon bag.

Which quick-dry towel brands are preferred by professional athletes for swim events?

There are several quick-dry towel brands that are preferred by professional athletes for swim events, including Speedo, TYR, and Arena. These brands are known for their high-quality materials and efficient drying capabilities, making them a popular choice among swimmers and triathletes.

Where can one find top-rated quick-dry beach towels suitable for triathlon use?

Top-rated quick-dry beach towels suitable for triathlon use can be found at sporting goods stores, online retailers, and specialty triathlon shops. Some popular options include Amazon, REI, and Triathlete Sports.

Are there any quick-dry towels available at major retailers that are suitable for triathlon training?

Yes, there are several quick-dry towels available at major retailers that are suitable for triathlon training. Some popular options include the Nike Microfiber Towel, the Under Armour Performance Towel, and the Adidas Towel. These towels are made of high-quality materials and are designed to dry quickly, making them perfect for triathlon training.